Department of Education Launches Investigations into Alleged Antisemitism and Islamophobia at Seven Schools

Cornell University, Columbia University, and University of Pennsylvania among the institutions under investigation

The Department of Education has initiated investigations into seven schools, including prestigious universities such as Cornell University, Columbia University, and the University of Pennsylvania. The investigations were prompted by complaints of alleged incidents of antisemitism and Islamophobia. This marks the first time the Department of Education has undertaken such investigations since the October 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel. The schools have been notified about the investigations, which include five cases of antisemitism and two cases of Islamophobia. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona anticipates that more investigations will follow.

Investigations Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act

Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, universities and K-12 schools are obligated to provide a discrimination-free environment for all students. The Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights can receive Title VI complaints from anyone who believes they have experienced discrimination based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics. The investigations will assess whether the schools have fulfilled their responsibilities under this act. At the conclusion of the investigations, the Department of Education will provide recommendations to the schools. Non-compliance may result in the schools losing federal funding.

The Schools Under Investigation

The schools currently under investigation include Lafayette College in Pennsylvania, Cornell University in New York, Columbia University in New York, Wellesley College in Massachusetts, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in New York, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Maize Unified School District in Kansas. These institutions span K-12 schools and colleges, highlighting the breadth of the issue.

Complaints Filed by the Brandeis Center

The Brandeis Center, a Jewish civil rights legal organization, recently filed complaints against the University of Pennsylvania and Wellesley College. The complaints allege that both schools failed to adequately respond to instances of harassment targeting Jews. While the University of Pennsylvania has not yet responded to CNN’s request for comment, Wellesley College has expressed its willingness to undergo the Department of Education’s review. The college stated that it is committed to addressing antisemitism on its campus and creating an environment that rejects all forms of hate and discrimination.

Responses from the Schools Under Investigation

Lafayette College has stated that it will cooperate with the investigation but expressed confusion as to why it was included. The college highlighted recent peaceful gatherings held by students with differing views to honor those affected by the violence in the Middle East. Columbia University and the Maize Unified School District have also confirmed their cooperation with the investigations. Cornell University did not provide a comment at this time, while The Cooper Union did not respond immediately.

Rising Tension on Campuses

College campuses have witnessed a surge in tension amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. A student from Cornell University has been federally charged for making online threats against Jewish students. Additionally, the University of Pennsylvania alerted the FBI to a series of threatening antisemitic emails sent to its staff. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona acknowledges the heightened intensity and emphasizes the need for a strong response to ensure student safety and a zero-tolerance policy towards hate and threats on campus.

Department of Education’s Efforts to Address Discrimination

Earlier this month, the Department of Education issued guidance to colleges and K-12 schools, reminding them of their legal obligation to address incidents of discrimination, including against Jewish, Israeli, Muslim, Arab, or Palestinian individuals. The department has also updated its discrimination complaint form to explicitly include protection against discrimination based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics. To further combat hate-based threats, bullying, and harassment, the department is conducting listening sessions with K-12 school leaders and plans to launch a webinar series in December.

Conclusion: The Department of Education’s investigations into alleged incidents of antisemitism and Islamophobia at seven schools, including Cornell University, Columbia University, and the University of Pennsylvania, mark a significant step in addressing discrimination on campuses. The investigations, conducted under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, highlight the importance of creating inclusive and safe educational environments. The outcomes of these investigations will not only impact the schools involved but also set a precedent for addressing discrimination in educational institutions nationwide.


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